Samuel Adams, cousin of John Adams, is called the “Father of the American Revolution.” He incited the Boston Tea Party, signed the Declaration of Independence and called for the first Continental Congress. A great orator, Samuel Adams once said, “First of all, I … rely upon the merits of Jesus Christ for a pardon of all my sins.”

Concerning the need for Christian character in the new nation, “The sum of all is, if we would most truly enjoy the gift of Heaven, let us become a virtuous people; then shall we both deserve and enjoy it. While on the other hand, if we are universally vicious and debauched in our manners, though the form of our Constitution carries the face of the most exalted freedom, we shall in reality be the most abject slaves.”

Referring to the overthrow of tyranny, “He who sets up and pulls down, confines or extends empires at his pleasure, generally, if not always, carries on his work with instruments apparently unfit for the great purpose, but which in his hands are always effectual … God does the work, but not without instruments.”

After signing the Declaration: “We have this day restored the Sovereign to whom alone men ought to be obedient. He reigns in heaven and from the rising to the setting sun, may His kingdom come.”

See also: The Bill of Rights